The Quality Assurance Unit (QAU) is responsible for maintaining the accreditation status of the Technical Services and Forensic Sciences Divisions through auditing, inspecting and standardization utilizing the standards and criteria of the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors / Laboratory Accreditation Board. Accreditation allows the Divisions to demonstrate that its management, personnel, operational and technical procedures, equipment and physical facilities meet established standards. The Divisions have held this accreditation since 1991.

Accreditation is one part of our quality assurance program which also includes proficiency testing, continuing education, testimony monitoring and a review system that aids the Divisions in providing better overall service to the criminal justice system.

System Administration
This QAU’s responsibility also includes administration, implementation and training for the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) and the e-Centron temperature monitoring system.

Grants
The administrative, financial monitoring and reporting of grants awarded to the Technical Services and Forensic Sciences Divisions are also managed by the QAU. Examples of grants managed by the unit include local, Paul Coverdell, DNA Backlog Improvement, and DNA Cold Case.

Safety and Security
The safety program within the Division ensures the proper environmental disposal of unwanted and expired chemicals and biohazard wastes and training of staff in the proper handling procedures when using these substances. The security program documents and limits access to high liability areas including evidence and analytical testing.